With a history that stretches back nearly 2,000 years, London is considered to be one of the most iconic European cities to visit. Whether you are looking for a tour of the , such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London and Trafalgar Square, or you are hoping to immerse yourself in one of the city's eclectic and charming neighborhoods, you will find that the best time to visit London is any time that you can fit in a trip.
Opinions vary on the top season for visiting London, with many finding that there are benefits to consider throughout each month of the year. Finding the best time to visit London for your own personal needs and interests can be a big task, but below we’ve broken down the pros and cons of each season, for planning convenience.
Getty Images / CHUNYIP WONG
Experience Springtime in London
Pros: Fewer crowds, warmer weather and plenty of blossoms
Cons: Unpredictable weather, increased chance of that infamous London rain
Spring in London is simply idyllic. The perfectly pink cherry blossoms are in full bloom in Battersea Park and the extended daylight allows people to experience the beauty and atmosphere of this season well into the evening. Given the fact that the spring tourist crowds are typically low, many consider April and May to be the best time of year to visit London.
Travelers who choose to visit London in the spring find that it's one of the best times of year to take a walking tour through the city. The weather is typically comfortable enough, especially if you pack a light jacket and with fewer crowds, you can easily navigate the city's streets.
If you are embarking on a self-guided walking tour of London during the spring, you may want to consider stopping by some of the city's most iconic landmarks, such as:
Westminster Abbey
St. Paul's Cathedral
The Millennium Bridge
The Tower of London
Trafalgar Square
While Kew Gardens is open year-round in London, spring is considered to be the perfect time to visit this well-known London attraction. During spring, the garden is in full bloom and there are often artistic horticultural designs on display, giving you an opportunity to soak up the full beauty of this exceptional garden.
With room to roam and time to spare, you will quickly see why spring is considered to be the best time to visit London.
Getty Images / MEDITERRANEAN
Discover London in the Summer
Pros: Warm weather, plentiful sunshine, plenty of things to do
Cons: Intense tourist crowds
Summer is the season most often thought of as the top time of year to visit London, as families and travelers from around the world often have more flexibility and availability. This makes London one of the most popular summer vacation destinations. The tourist crowds can be quite high, particularly in July and August, but it’s still a wonderful time of year to explore the city.
With abundant sunshine and warmer weather, summer gives you the chance to get outside and explore what the city has to offer. England has long been famous for its meticulously curated gardens and during the summer these breathtaking displays are in full bloom. Whether you are strolling through Kensington Gardens or absorbing the tranquility of the Kyoto Garden, you will see why the city has a reputation for having some of the best gardens in the world.
Summer is also the perfect time to catch a show at the Globe Theater, which is a replica of Shakespeare's open-air theater that was once located in the heart of the city. Stand along with the rest of the Groundlings in the pit of the globe and watch one of Shakespeare's masterpieces being performed the way it was intended.
After a day of sightseeing, you will find that the best way to end a summer day in London is to walk along the River Thames. There, you can soak up the skyline of the city and reflect on the memories that you have made during your perfect summer vacation.
Getty Images / Karl Hendon
Indulge in a London Autumn
Pros: Peaceful atmosphere, lingering warm weather and sunshine
Cons: Some attractions may have limited hours
As the summer tourist crowds retreat back to their hometowns, a sense of peace and serenity falls over London. The city is starting to prepare for another dark and dreary winter season and there is a sense of anticipation with each passing day as locals and visitors alike strive to take in the beauty of the fall colors and the waning warmth of the sunshine.
Brimming with travelers in the summer, Hyde Park is a London attraction best saved for the quieter season of fall. Whether you prefer to walk along the tree-lined trails that wind through the park, or you want to try a favorite royal pastime and horseback ride down the equestrian trails, you will find that the fall weather is perfect for a day in London's most famous park.
Of course, a London autumn would not be complete without a few rainy days. If you would rather not explore the city's top attractions underneath your umbrella, you can head to one of the best London museums. Dedicated to telling the story of human history, the British Museum has a comprehensive collection that features artifacts from around the world, spanning back as far as two million years.
If you are looking to visit London during a time when tourists will not define the experience, then fall may be the best time of year to visit London for you.
Getty Images / Gary Yeowell
Enjoy the Magic of Winter in London
Pros: Lower rates for hotels and excursions, fewer crowds
Cons: Increased chance of wet and windy weather
The winter days in London are short, with darkness descending upon the city by the early evening hours. However, the warm and inviting atmosphere of the city makes it one of the most magical times of year to visit.
You will want to pack your parka and your warmest scarf, but as long as you prepare for the elements, you will be able to experience the wonder and majesty of London's top attractions. In fact, if you come during the holiday season, you may find that the festive glow of the city adds a touch of whimsy to your trip — it's an experience that you can't enjoy any other time of the year.
In late November and throughout December, the London Christmas markets are in full swing. Popular among both locals and tourists, the London Christmas markets feature festive decor, sparkling twinkle lights and plenty of vendors, allowing you to soak up the spirit of the season.
Some of the most popular tourist attractions may have limited hours during winter, but winter is the top time of year to visit London if you are looking to make lasting holiday memories with the ones you love.
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